Laxatives

Question 1

Bulk-forming

psyllium (Metamucil)
methyl-cellulose

Answer 1

Use: decrease diarrhea by controlling stool

PREFERRED!!

Nurse: must give with 8oz. H2O (esophageal obstruction)

Question 2

Surfactant

docusate (Colace)

Answer 2

Use: stool softener (H2O to stool)
Preg constipation or opioid use
Prevents pain with elimination!

Question 3

Stimulant

biscodyl (Dulcolox)
senna (Exlax)

Answer 3

Use: prep for colonoscopy or short term for opioids

Nurse: oral or suppository
1 hr b4 milk/antacids
Yellow/brown/pink urine
Watch for dependency

Question 4

Osmotic

magnesium hydroxate
Fleet
Babylax

Answer 4

Use: low= prevent pain with elimination
High= prep for colonoscopy
Rapid= rid body of parasites

Nurse: increase water intake, skin tugor

Question 5

Saline Salts

magnesium sulfate/citrate

Answer 5

Use: soften stool
SE: GI (don’t crush)
Watch: pt with bowel obstruction
Nurse: increase fluid intake, avoid Na